Director, Human Resources, Chariton Distribution

Hy-Vee, Inc.•West Des Moines, IA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Human Resources at our Chariton Distribution Center serves as the cornerstone of our people strategy at one of our most operationally complex locations. You'll lead a full spectrum of HR functions, from talent acquisition and employee relations to labor relations and compliance, ensuring that our team members feel supported and that the business runs with integrity. In this role, you act as a trusted partner to distribution leadership while maintaining fair, consistent practices that honor both our company values and collective bargaining obligations. Success in this role requires a seasoned HR professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings deep knowledge of labor law and union relations, and is energized by making a meaningful impact on people's daily work lives.

Requirements

Proven experience in labor relations, including CBA administration, grievance handling, and working constructively with union representatives.
Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, OSHA, NLRA) and the ability to apply them in a complex distribution or operations environment.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust across all levels of the organization – from frontline workers to senior leadership.
Demonstrated leadership ability, including experience developing and coaching HR team members.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to use data to identify trends, inform decisions, and communicate insights to leadership.
High level of organization and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred.
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
5+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2 years in a role that included labor relations or union environment responsibilities.
Experience in a distribution, logistics, manufacturing, or similar operational environment strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP) preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and develop the HR team at the Chariton Distribution Center, providing coaching, direction, and performance feedback to drive a high-functioning, people-centered department.
Partner with distribution center leadership to align HR strategy with operational goals, serving as a trusted advisor on workforce planning, organizational effectiveness, and talent development.
Oversee the full employee lifecycle including recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and offboarding to ensure a consistent and positive employee experience.
Lead with a continuous improvement focus and mentality in all areas.
Serve as the primary HR point of contact for all labor relations matters at Hy-Vee's union facility, building productive relationships with union representatives rooted in mutual respect and transparency.
Interpret, administer, and ensure compliance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA); advise management on CBA application and obligations.
Manage the grievance process, including investigation, response preparation, and participation in arbitration proceedings as needed.
Monitor union contract obligations related to payroll, job changes, promotions, and other employee actions; ensure timely and accurate compliance.
Prepare for and participate in contract negotiations, providing data analysis, documentation support, and strategic input.
Investigate and resolve employee concerns, workplace conflicts, and complaints in a fair, thorough, and timely manner; act as a liaison between employees and management.
Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws and regulations as well as company policies and procedures.
Maintain accurate OSHA records, drug and alcohol testing documentation, DOT files, and other required state and federal documentation.
Participate in Workers' Compensation and Unemployment hearings, providing documentation and representation as needed.
Administer the facility's compensation program in alignment with Corporate Compensation guidelines, including communicating pay practices, processing pay actions, and producing compensation reports for distribution center leadership.
Partner with the Corporate Compensation team on salary analysis, job evaluation requests, and pay rate assignments; serve as the on-site resource for employee and manager compensation questions.
Implement and communicate benefit plan changes, open enrollment, and wellness programs in partnership with the Corporate Benefits team, ensuring consistent delivery and employee understanding at the facility level.
Oversee the creation, maintenance, and regular review of employee records to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.
Implement HR policies, procedures, and training programs; identify opportunities to improve HR practices and recommend solutions.
Maintain strict confidentiality with respect to personnel files, employee issues, medical records, compensation data, and other sensitive company information.